Prof. Jess Gerrit Snedeker

Tendons are critical for musculoskeletal function, yet they are prone to chronic injuries that are difficult to treat. This project leverages cutting-edge tissue engineering approaches to model human tendon physiology and pathophysiology in vitro. Students will help build and analyze tendon-like constructs using fibroblasts and extracellular matrices, study cellular responses to pro-inflammatory and exercise-mimicking stimuli, and explore how mechanical loading influences repair and regeneration. Projects may include designing stretchable 3D constructs, characterizing matrix remodeling, and investigating molecular markers of tendon health and disease using immunostaining, qPCR, and advanced microscopy. This is an excellent opportunity for students interested in translational bioengineering and the cellular mechanisms underpinning soft tissue repair. The work is ideally suited for students with interests in biomechanics, molecular cell biology, tissue regeneration, or exercise physiology.

The goal is to develop physiologically relevant tendon tissue models to study the mechanisms by which injury and therapeutic exercise influence inflammation, vascularization, and matrix remodeling. Students will gain interdisciplinary skills in tissue engineering, microscopy, molecular biology, and cell culture—building a strong foundation for academic or applied biomedical research careers.

professor Jess Snedeker jess.snedeker@hest.ethz.ch